Why Carrie Fisher Was Such An Icon On And Off The Big Screen

Where do we even start with Carrie Fisher? A Hollywood legend and a true force to be reckoned with. Carrie was an icon, an advocate, and an inspiration. As more series emerge from the Star Wars universe, it’s our duty to give an ode to the OG Princess so that new Jedi fans can get to know one of the most important characters in Star Wars history.

If you’re interested in learning about the most important Star Wars character to ever grace the big screen – read on!

Not Your Typical Princess

Carrie’s portrayal of Princess Leia in the original Star Wars trilogy helped inspire a new generation of princesses by fighting old-fashioned princess stereotypes in several ways.

For example, Leia was a strong and independent female character at a time when most princesses in pop culture were portrayed as damsels in distress. Leia wasn’t waiting to be saved by any man. Instead, she led the Rebel Alliance as a skilled fighter and strategist.

Being well-informed about this feisty princess as well as the other OG trilogy characters, is key for any Star Wars fan. Especially those of you who’ve been brought into the Star Wars universe from shows such as The Mandalorian and Andor. PIA’s Star Wars quiz covers the breadth of all Star Wars characters, old and new if you need to be brought up to speed.

Her Sense Of Humor

Furthermore, Carrie was also known for her dry wit and humor. Fisher used these qualities to discuss her struggles with mental health issues, including bipolar disorder and addiction. She often talked openly about these issues in her writing and interviews. Washington Post has noted how many of her fans now mourn her outspoken candidness regarding her mental health issues that helped transform her into the role model she is today.

Fisher’s humor was often self-deprecating, and she was never afraid to make light of her own struggles. For example, she once said, ‘I don’t have a problem with drugs. I have a problem with sobriety.’ These comments from Fisher helped to normalize mental health issues and showed that it was possible to talk about such complexities in a lighthearted way without minimizing their impact.

A Voice For Women

Fisher was also known for her boldness in helping to shine a light on the double standard in Hollywood. She used her platform to encourage young girls and women to be themselves, stand up for their beliefs, and challenge traditional gender roles.

That can be demonstrated in Carrie’s refusal to lose weight for her revival of the role of Leia in ‘Star Wars The Force Awakens,’ despite there being pressure for her to lose weight, as stated by Global News.

Fisher was vocal about her refusal to lose weight, stating that she didn’t want to perpetuate unrealistic beauty standards and that she was comfortable with her body as it was. This was a powerful testament to not only her talent as an actress but also her commitment to standing up for women all over the world.

A Legacy That Lives On

Carrie Fisher was and always will be, an icon because of her talent, boldness, and wit. She was a trailblazer for women in film and an inspiration to many. So, whether you’re a new generation Jedi fan wanting to join the dark side, as long as you take from here just how much of an icon Carrie Fisher was both on and off the big screen, our job here is done.